Bihar verdict likely to be closer than predicted

The Bihar election results may throw up unexpected outcomes this time. Though the final picture will emerge by Friday afternoon, conversations among key political figures suggest that while the NDA is likely to form the government, a sweeping victory appears unlikely.

- AJIT MAINDOLA

An election official briefs to vote counting staff during a training session on the eve of Bihar assembly election results, in Patna on Thursday. ANI

Some exit polls have projected an NDA landslide, but insiders caution that surprises are possible. BJP leaders, however, seem buoyant, with early celebrations already underway.